Metabolism

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Metabolism describes the chemical reactions that occur in the body which are vital for keeping us alive.

Metabolism refers to the physical and chemical processes that occur in the body which keep us functioning normally in order to stay alive, such as breathing, blood circulation and nerve function. To carry out these processes, our body converts energy from the food we eat. Chemicals in our digestive system break down food into fuel, which is either used immediately or stored in the body's tissues.

The energy (kilojoules) we expend over a day in order to survive is called our basal or resting metabolic rate. Although you can't control your metabolism, it can be stimulated during exercise.

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